How to Tell When Squash are Ready to Harvest
This is my first time growing squash. How can I tell when they are ready to pick?
Harvest summer squash when they are small and tender. Pick zucchini and other long squash when it is 2 inches in diameter and 6 to 8 inches long. Patti pan and other scalloped summer squash taste best when they are 3 to 4 inches in diameter. Regular harvesting will give you the best flavor and biggest production. Wait for the rinds of acorn, butternut and other winter squash to fully color and become hard. Store these in a cool dry location.
Related
Audio
Article
Upcoming
Events & Webinars
Sept. 17, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Fall Landscape Care and Planting
Register here
Sept. 26, 2026
Pruning Hydrangeas & Other Shrubs
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL
More information
Oct. 6, 2026
Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference
(registration is closed)
La Crosse, WI
Oct. 22, 2026
Wauwatosa Public Library
Wauwatosa, WI
More information
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
MORE UPCOMING EVENT DETAILS


